In memory of ‘Bubsy’ our FLO Ambassador

“Auē, Ua Maliliu Toa, ua maumau ai ‘au’upega o le tau’a!” 

“A great warrior has fallen, and the weapons of war perished!”

Le Va honours one of our great warriors from the Pasifika Christchurch community who has sadly passed away this week. 

Fa’atama Memea Eletino “Bubsy” Ma’aelopa Siania was a leader, teacher, a mentor and advocate for Pasifika communities. Bubsy was part of Le Va’s FLO: Pasifika for Life national Pasifika suicide prevention programme as an Ambassador, leading and supporting Pasifika suicide prevention in the Canterbury region. 

He was a pioneer in serving our Pasifika communities, with a heart for the younger generation and a voice for those who could not speak. His wisdom was felt by all, his presence lit up a room, bringing laughter and a joy that heals…yet always quick to give a correcting word when needed! 

We will miss you Memea. Our prayers, thoughts and love go out to your family and community. 

Memea has left this physical world, but he’s left a warrior spirit and a legacy for us to follow and find new ways to strongly advocate for our Pasifika families, especially our youth. 

Memea, your Le Va Aiga, Le Va board of directors, fellow FLO Ambassadors, and Youth Advisory Komiti honour you.

ia manuia lou Malaga. Soifua

Dr Monique Faleafa, CEO Le Va, the Le Va aiga.

Read our Grief Factsheet for support, you can download it here.